Gandapur launches prison reforms initiative

Digital systems and facility upgrades to modernise K-P's jails, enhance inmates welfare.

PESHAWAR:

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur on Wednesday formally launched the newly established Prison Management Information System (PMIS) and E-Visit App, marking a significant step in the provincial government's prison reforms and inmate welfare initiatives.

During a briefing, officials highlighted that the Prison Management Information System has fully digitized prison operations, interconnecting all 39 prisons in the province with each other and the judicial system.

The system also enables virtual court hearings via video link, reducing the need for physical inmate transfers for court appearances.

Similarly, the newly introduced E-Visit App facilitates online meetings between inmates and their families, eliminating the need for in-person visits and improving communication convenience.

Regarding other reform initiatives, it was highlighted that Rs1.2 billion is being spent annually on inmate meals, and after seven years, the prison food menu has been revised to ensure a balanced diet.

The prison regulations are being aligned with international standards i.e. Mandela Rules and Bangkok Rules. Furthermore, modern medical equipment and improved healthcare facilities are being provided for inmates.

To promote physical and mental well-being, sports competitions have been introduced in prisons, and vocational training programs have been launched to equip inmates with various skills.

Moreover, the prison industry has been revitalized and linked with the marketplace to provide financial benefits to prisoners. Officials also reported that 317 inmates from K-P, who were previously imprisoned in Punjab, have been transferred back to the province.

Additionally, the provincial government is prioritizing the construction and development of prisons across the province. The completion of District Jail Swabi and Central Jail DI Khan will address the issue of overcrowding, while funds have been approved for a new prison in District Tank.

Similarly, five regional prison offices have been made operational to improve prison management and Rs1.39 billion has been allocated for modern security equipment in prisons. Additionally, modern interview rooms have been built to ensure safe and convenient inmate-family meetings.

Chief Minister commended the relevant officials for introducing the Prison Management Information System and implementing other reform initiatives. He stated that today's event marks a new chapter in the journey of prison reforms.

He expressed gratitude to the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for their cooperation, stating that this partnership is a milestone in enhancing the prison system and inmate welfare.

We aim to establish a modern system based on justice, transparency, and humanity, and we will utilize all available resources to achieve this goal, he said.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister also formally inaugurated the newly established Service Delivery Center-II at the Mohafiz Khana.